What to do in new hampshire?
Updated: August 6, 2024Explore the White Mountains
The White Mountains are perhaps the most iconic natural feature of New Hampshire. This range, part of the larger Appalachian Mountains, offers a myriad of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Hiking: With over 1,200 miles of trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, there are options for all skill levels. Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, is a challenging but rewarding climb.
- Scenic Drives: The Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) is a must-see, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
- Camping: Numerous campgrounds offer a chance to immerse yourself in nature. The White Mountain National Forest is a prime location for both car camping and backcountry experiences.
Enjoy Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire, is a hub for water-based activities and lakeside relaxation.
- Boating: Rent a boat or take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington to explore the lake's many islands and coves.
- Fishing: The lake is teeming with fish, making it a popular spot for both casual and serious anglers.
- Beaches: Spend a day at Weirs Beach or Ellacoya State Park, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy family-friendly amenities.
Visit Historic Portsmouth
Portsmouth, a charming seacoast city, is rich in history and culture. Its well-preserved architecture and vibrant arts scene make it a delightful destination.
- Strawbery Banke Museum: This living history museum offers a glimpse into Portsmouth's past, with restored buildings and costumed interpreters.
- Prescott Park: Located along the waterfront, this park features beautiful gardens, outdoor concerts, and festivals throughout the summer.
- Market Square: The heart of downtown Portsmouth, Market Square is full of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Experience the Monadnock Region
The Monadnock Region, named after Mount Monadnock, is known for its quaint towns and outdoor activities.
- Mount Monadnock: One of the most climbed mountains in the world, it offers stunning views and various trails to the summit.
- Peterborough: This charming town is home to the Peterborough Players, a renowned summer theater, and the Mariposa Museum of World Cultures.
- Antiquing: The region is dotted with antique shops, perfect for those who enjoy hunting for unique treasures.
Enjoy the State’s Ski Resorts
New Hampshire is a winter wonderland for ski enthusiasts, offering several top-notch resorts.
- Loon Mountain: Located in Lincoln, Loon Mountain offers a variety of trails, terrain parks, and a scenic gondola ride.
- Cranmore Mountain Resort: In North Conway, this resort is perfect for families, with skiing, snowboarding, and a mountain coaster.
- Waterville Valley: Known for its well-groomed trails and family-friendly atmosphere, Waterville Valley is a favorite among locals and visitors.
Tour the State Capitol, Concord
Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, is a small city with big attractions.
- New Hampshire State House: The oldest state capitol in which the legislature still meets in its original chambers. Free guided tours are available.
- McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center: Named after astronaut Alan Shepard and teacher Christa McAuliffe, this science museum features interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
- Concord Antique Gallery: A large, multi-dealer shop offering a wide array of antiques and collectibles.
Discover the Seacoast
New Hampshire’s short but beautiful coastline offers plenty to see and do.
- Hampton Beach: A classic New England beach with a bustling boardwalk, live entertainment, and sandy shores.
- Odiorne Point State Park: Featuring tide pools, hiking trails, and the Seacoast Science Center, this park is a great place for family exploration.
- Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse: Located on New Castle Island, this historic lighthouse offers tours and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Engage in Cultural Activities
New Hampshire is not just about nature; it has a rich cultural scene as well.
- Currier Museum of Art: Located in Manchester, this museum houses European and American paintings, decorative arts, photographs, and sculptures.
- Palace Theatre: Also in Manchester, this historic theater offers a range of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts and family-friendly events.
- League of NH Craftsmen: With several locations across the state, these galleries showcase the work of local artisans, from pottery and jewelry to glass and fiber arts.
Sample Local Cuisine
New Hampshire’s culinary scene is diverse and delicious, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Seafood: Being close to the coast, New Hampshire offers excellent seafood. Don't miss the chance to try clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fried clams.
- Farm-to-Table: Many restaurants in the state emphasize locally-sourced ingredients. Visit places like The Foundry in Manchester or The Black Birch in Kittery.
- Craft Breweries: New Hampshire boasts a growing craft beer scene. Breweries like Smuttynose Brewing Company in Hampton and White Birch Brewing in Nashua are worth a visit.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
New Hampshire hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from arts and crafts to seasonal delights.
- Keene Pumpkin Festival: Held in October, this festival features thousands of carved pumpkins, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Laconia Motorcycle Week: One of the oldest motorcycle rallies in the country, it attracts riders from all over the world each June.
- New Hampshire Highland Games: This September event in Lincoln celebrates Scottish culture with traditional music, dancing, and athletic competitions.
Take a Scenic Train Ride
New Hampshire offers several scenic train rides that provide a unique perspective on the state's landscapes.
- Conway Scenic Railroad: Starting in North Conway, this historic railway offers several routes, including a journey through Crawford Notch.
- Mount Washington Cog Railway: This historic cog railway takes passengers to the summit of Mount Washington, offering stunning views along the way.
- Hobo Railroad: Located in Lincoln, the Hobo Railroad offers family-friendly rides along the Pemigewasset River.
Explore State Parks
New Hampshire's state parks offer a wide range of recreational opportunities.
- Franconia Notch State Park: Home to the Flume Gorge, the Basin, and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, this park is a must-visit.
- Pawtuckaway State Park: Featuring hiking trails, a large lake, and a variety of wildlife, it's perfect for a day trip or camping adventure.
- Bear Brook State Park: The largest developed state park in New Hampshire, offering camping, hiking, biking, and swimming.
As you traverse the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities of New Hampshire, you'll find that each corner of this captivating state offers its own unique charm and set of experiences, leaving you with memories to cherish and stories to tell.
Related Questions
New Hampshire, a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States, is known for its quaint towns, vast wilderness, and significant historical landmarks. The capital of New Hampshire is Concord, a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions that draw visitors from around the world.
Ask HotBot: What is the capital of new hampshire?
The roots of New Hampshire can be traced back to early exploration by Europeans, primarily the French and the English in the early 17th century. Samuel de Champlain, a French explorer, mapped the coast of what is now New Hampshire in 1605. However, the first significant settlement effort came from English fishermen and traders.
Ask HotBot: When was new hampshire founded?
New Hampshire is located in the northeastern region of the United States, specifically within the New England area. It is bordered by three states: Vermont to the west, Maine to the east, and Massachusetts to the south. To the north, it shares an international border with Quebec, Canada. The state is also close to the Atlantic Ocean, with a small seacoast region that provides coastal access.
Ask HotBot: Where is new hampshire on the map?
New Hampshire, one of the original thirteen colonies of the United States, has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century. Understanding who founded New Hampshire involves delving into the complex interplay of explorers, settlers, and charters that shaped the region.
Ask HotBot: Who founded new hampshire?